It's been 5 months since the first post regarding my effort to get back into the air on a regular basis. The plan for this year was to fly at least once a month AND return to flight instructing in some form. Unfortunately life got in the way. It has a tendency to do that.
Shortly after the initial blog post the end of February, my wife and I started building a house. Our home will be complete and ready to move into next month. We're very excited about that fact. Less than a month after we bought our lot to start the build process, Dad was diagnosed with leukemia. He fought it valiantly for 2 months but lost the fight. It was a hard loss. My Dad was definitely not thrilled with flying, but he supported my efforts to become a pilot and flight instructor none-the-less. For that, and so much more, I'll be forever greatfull. Dad was a remarkable man. I miss him deeply and always will.
As the healing process from the loss of a loved one continues and the final stages of the house build and impending move commence, I can once again start focusing on my goal to get back into aviation education as a flight instructor. Over the past 3 weekends, I've been trying to do things with an aviation bent so I can eventually return to a life in the air.
Two of the past three Saturdays, I've taken my young son to Longmont Vance Brand Airport (KLMO) to hang out and watch the airplanes, parachutes, and ultralights work the sky and traffic pattern around the airport. The weather has been great, as has the action. KLMO is a happening place on Saturday mornings. And the Flight Deck Grill serves a fine cup of java while you sit and hangar fly with some of the airport locals.
Last Saturday, Hunter (my son) and I went to the air museum at Erie Municipal Airport (KEIK). Spirit of Flight is a non-profit museum that offers hundreds of rare aviation items and artifacts from the late 1920's up through the early stages of the Cold War. However, it's primary attractions are WWII vintage aircraft, memorabilia, uniforms, and more. The museum's mission is to restore all its aircraft to full flying condition. Not a bad goal for an all volunteer group! The owner, Gordon, is an affable and very knowledgeable fellow. He spent time with us telling us all about the museum, the collection, and his start in aviation. Hunter and I had a great time and will definitely return.
Aside from the fun trips, I've also been studying and reviewing material in preparation for the return to instructing. Without a doubt, there is plenty to cover and I will continue working at it. Until the next post, I'd better spend some time in the FAR/AIM.
Happy Landings
